Frequently Asked Questions

Service ProvidersClick here to see Service Providers listed in this category.
Click here to see Projects listed in this category.

What is Network Barbados?

Network Barbados is a professional networking site which was created by Invest Barbados, to help unleash the export potential of the indigenous services sector. This is a unique and exciting initiative to facilitate the export of Barbadian services to global markets. In addition, the site highlights the opportunities for foreign direct investment into Barbados in several sectors, including international business and financial services, information communication technology, niche manufacturing and renewable energy.

How do I use the site?

All visitors to the site can browse the projects and services posted by other users by clicking on a sector on the left. You will then have the choice to browse all the projects or all the service providers in that sector. You can also use the Search tool to find projects and/or service providers, and filter results by sector category and subcategory. A listing of all projects and services can be seen by clicking on the counters in the Database Count menu on the right.

Registered users have the ability to post projects and services to the site by clicking My Services / My Projects in the User Menu or clicking Post Project on the top bar. Registered users can also leave comments on Project pages and receive notifications of relevant projects based on the service provider entries they’ve created, and have the ability to post recipes (accessible through the Things Bajan menu).

What are the advantages of joining this network?

Network Barbados provides a virtual gateway for people to meet and network with a view to putting solution seekers in touch with solution providers. It is a categorized database offering service providers, investors and consumers quick, easy and effective access to a wider, more internationally focused resource pool of potential business partners.

Is my Information secure?

This website is encrypted and all information submitted is strictly confidential.  We work to protect the security of your information during transmission by using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) software, which encrypts information you input.

Who do I contact if I have a problem?

If you need information about this site, you should contact the Administrator, ICT Department at Invest Barbados.  The telephone number is 246-626-2000 or send an email to contact@investbarbados.org.

What is the role of Invest Barbados (IB)?

Invest Barbados is a statutory corporation established by the government of Barbados. IB is responsible for attracting, winning and sustaining international investment for Barbados.  The corporation is also responsible for unleashing the export potential of the indigenous services sector and helping to develop and manage the Barbados Business brand.

What are the entry requirements for visitors?

All visitors must have a passport and a valid return ticket. All visitors with the exception of the citizens of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the USA, Canada and the United Kingdom are expected to obtain a visa before travelling to Barbados.

How do I get to Barbados?

To get to the island, a large number of international flights originate mainly in the US, Canada and the UK and often provide direct service. These include American Airlines, Air Jamaica, Delta, and US Airways from the US; Air Canada and WestJet from Canada and British Airways and Virgin Atlantic from the UK. For cruise travellers, the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal is a point of disembarkation for thousands of passengers every year. Some of the several lines that travel to Barbados include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Fred Olsen and Co. and the Norwegian Cruise Line.

How do I travel around Barbados?

Once in Barbados, visitors can choose from a car rental, taxi service or public and private service vehicles.

What is the local currency?

The Barbados dollar is pegged to the US dollar at an exchange rate of US$1 = BB$1.98. US dollars are accepted island-wide and most stores and restaurants accept major credit cards and travellers cheques.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Visitors who bring their mobile phones with them must remember to ensure the roaming feature is activated prior to arriving in the island. Local service is provided by LIME www.time4lime.com and Digicel www.digicelbarbados.com.

What is the voltage used?

115/230 volts 50 cycles. Standard plug types in Barbados are two flat blades or flat blades with round grounding pun. Most hotels provide converters for European or Asian appliances. North American appliances do not need converters.

Can I drink tap water?

The Barbados Water Authority, a Government statutory corporation, is the sole provider of water services. The water service in Barbados is reliable and the water supply is safe and refreshing to drink.

What types of hotels are available?

Hotels on the island include a range of resorts from internationally recognised chains to options for smaller budgets. For more information, see www.visitbarbados.org or http://www.bhta.org/.

Setting up Operations

What types of business can be conducted in Barbados?

Business can be carried out in Barbados in the form of sole traders, partnerships, companies or societies with restricted liability. A company may be either public or private and if private may be incorporated with one (1) director. No person under age eighteen (18) may be appointed a director. For more information, see www.caipo.gov.bb

What must I do to set up a business in Barbados?

Legal Requirements:

  • Register with the Corporate Affairs and Intellectual Property Office, located at the Barbados Public Workers Co-operative Credit Union Complex, Melbourne, Belmont Road, St. Michael. www.caipo.gov.bb
  • Register with the National Insurance Department, Sir Frank Walcott Building, Culloden Road, St. Michael, where you will be issued with an employer’s national insurance number.
  • Register with the Inland Revenue Department, Treasury Building, Bridge Street, for income tax purposes.
  • Contact the Value Added Tax (VAT) Division located at the Weymouth Corporate Centre, Rosebuck Street, St. Michael for guidance regarding their registration requirements.
  • Register with the Para Medical Professionals Council, Ministry of Health, Jemmotts Lane, Bridgetown if you intend to pursue business in the medical profession.
  • Apply for a licence from the Ministry of International Business if you plan to establish an International Business Company or Society with Restricted liability.
  • Apply to the Central Bank of Barbados if you would like to establish an international bank.
  • Apply to the Supervisor of Insurance if you plan to operation an insurance company.
  • Apply to the Immigration department for a work permit, if you are not a citizen of Barbados and would like to work on the island. For more information, contact the Immigration Department at imm-dept@caribsurf.com  
  • Building Requirements
  • Apply to the Chief Town Planner for the relevant permission if you plan to erect a structure, or intend to change the structure or usage of existing property. The website address is http://www.townplanning.gov.bb.


Customs Requirements:

If you will need to import any raw materials or equipment for your business, you should:

  • Ascertain from the Price Control Division of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Empowerment, Innovation, Trade, Industry and Commerce whether import licences are required.
  • Ascertain from the Customs and Excise Department whether import duties are payable.
  • All importers must register with the Computer Department of Customs to receive an import number before proceeding with the importation of any items. Failure to do this may result in unnecessary delay.
  • All manufacturers must register with the Approved Undertakings Division of Customs if they will require duty concessions.
  • Register with the Certification Department of the Export Promotion Division of the Barbados Investment & Development Corporation to facilitate duty free entry of your products into the USA, Canada, Venezuela, Columbia, and CARICOM member countries.

Do I need a work permit?

All persons with the exception of qualifying CARICOM Nationals require work permits to work in Barbados. There is an application fee of US$100. For more information, contact the Immigration Department at imm-dept@caribsurf.com 

Do I need a tax clearance certificate?

Generally, income tax clearance certificates are issued on request to persons requesting immigrant status/work permit renewals. The Inland Revenue Department is responsible for processing such applications.

How will goods I import into Barbados be processed by Customs?

Goods imported into Barbados are required to be processed whether these goods are imported via the air, sea, courier or post. Processing of goods requires the submission to the Customs Department of a duly completed goods declaration and the payment of applicable duties and taxes. One of the important documents required is a Commercial Invoice issued by the supplier. The World Trade Organisation (WTO) Valuation Code is in operation in Barbados.

What customs duties and taxes are levied on goods?

Import duties and taxes, payable or coverable by acceptable surety range from 0-20% of the Cost, Insurance and Freight Value (CIF) Value. There are some exceptions to these rates which include agricultural products, jewellery and vehicles. Most imported goods are subject to an Environmental Levy at the rate of 2% and a Value Added Tax of 15%. A limited number of commodities carry individual, specific rates.

Do I need a Clearing Agent?

Although importers can legally enter goods on their own behalf it is recommended that Licensed Clearing Agents (Customs Brokers) are used. A list of Agents can be found at barbadosyp.com.

Are there any incentives for investors in the hotel sector?

Persons investing in the tourism and hospital industry in Barbados may benefit from two incentives provided under the Tourism Development Act 2002 and Special Development Areas Act. For more information click here www.barbadostourisminvestment.com.

Are there any restrictions on commercial development of real estate?

Land in Barbados is zoned for specific usage and prior permission to build or for a change of use must be obtained from the Town and Country Planning Department. There is no restriction on the purchase of property by persons who are not citizens. However, persons who are not residents must finance the purchase of the property from external sources. Non-residents must also obtain permission from the Exchange Control Authority for the sale or purchase of real estate in Barbados.

What is the minimum wage in Barbados?

There are no legislated minimum wages except for shop assistants, where wages have been legislated at BDS$5.00 (US$2.50) per hour.